PLN calls for local government support for Atadei geothermal project, Indonesia
The local government of the Lembata Regency in Indonesia has confirmed support for the Atadei geothermal power project of PT PLN.
Representatives from PT PLN (Persero) Nusa Tenggara Development Main Unit (Unit Induk Pembangunan Nusa Tenggara / UIP Nusra) held a meeting with officials of the Lembata Regency Government in Indonesia, who confirmed their support for the Atadei geothermal power project.
The Atadei geothermal prospect is located in the Lembata Regency, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. PLN’S development plan indicates a capacity of 10 MW for the future geothermal power facility. Despite the modest size, this will be more than enough for Lembata Island, which is currently supplied power from a diesel plant with a capacity of 6.5 MW and peak load of 5.7 MW.
“We do not want Lembata to depend on diesel power plants forever. A diesel supply crisis could happen at any time, and we must have a long-term solution. Atadei Geothermal Power Plant is the answer to the future of clean and sustainable energy in this area,” said Kanisius Tuaq, the Regent of Lembata.
Local government to support land acquisition
During the meeting, PLN UIP Nusra explained that they are in the process acquiring the land needed for the two planned wellpads, AT-1 in Nubahaereka Village and AT-2 in Atakore Village. Of the 18 plots needed for the wellpads for AT-1, 12 have already been acquired. The acquisition of land for AT-2 is still under negotiation.
Michael Marrung, Land and Certification Manager at PLN UIP Nusra, stated that direction and support is needed from the local government for land acquisition to proceed smoothly and according to the appropriate regulations and requirements for community deliberation.
Representatives of the Lembata Government responded that they will immediately hold mediation meetings with the landowners to facilitate the acquisition.
For their part, PLN UIP Nusra guarantees that all crucial permits related to the development, starting from the Geothermal Working Area (WKP) permit, the development permit, and environmental impact assessment.
Yasir, General Manager of PLN UIP Nusra, also recounted how they have continued intensive communication with local governments and other stakeholders through the years. “Every time a regional head changes, we always hold an audience so that there is continuity in the development process. This is the main key to the success of the project.”
PT PLN, through PLN East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), is aiming to develop more than 70 MW of geothermal power generation capacity in the islands of East Nusa Tenggara. Aside from Atadei, the state-owned developer is also working on the Ulumbu, Sokoria, and Mataloko sites.
Source: Seputar NTB
